Colleen Ann Kruft

  Colleen Ann Kruft, age 89, of Park Rapids passed away peacefully at Heritage Living Center, January 1, 2017 with her loved ones by her side.  Colleen was born in Des Moines, Iowa  May 19, 1927 to Catherine (Franz) and William Wood.  She graduated from North High  and was employed by Bell Telephone and Western Union in Des Moines.   Colleen was  transferred by Bell Telephone to Manitowoc, Wisconsin where she worked as a supervisor.    Colleen moved to Park Rapids in 1947 and was employed by the Hubbard County Journal newspaper as Society Editor.     She married  Edwin Kruft in 1948.  She and Edwin raised 4 children on the Kruft family farm south of Dorset.  In 1970 Colleen fulfilled her dream to become a nurse when she attended the LPN Nursing Program in Detroit Lakes.   She graduated with high marks and began a career of nursing which she dearly loved. She was employed by St. Joseph's Hospital, Park Rapids, for many years.   Colleen had a great love for family gatherings,  and was never happier than when planning, cooking for,  or attending  a family get-together or reunion.  Colleen loved to tell a good story and loved to laugh.      She is survived by her three children, Rosemary Mills, Frank Kruft and Jean Kruft, all of Park Rapids. She is also survived by her grandchildren; Forest Mills, Skye Mills and Katie Henderson and many dearly loved nieces and nephews and extended family who will greatly miss her love and laughter.        She was preceded in death by her parents Catherine and William Wood, her daughter Suzanne Taylor (2002), and 6 brothers and sisters.     A memorial service  will be held at  2 PM Sunday, January 8th , 2017 at First English Lutheran of Dorset;  Pastor Chris Davis officiating. To leave online condolences please visit jonespearson.com.